Exercise Psychologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of health and wellness, the role of exercise psychologists has never been more essential.

As fitness culture continues to grow, so does the demand for professionals who can guide, support, and enhance our understanding of the psychological aspects of physical activity.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an exercise psychologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the inner workings of exercise psychology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive exercise psychologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Exercise Psychologist Duties and Responsibilities

Exercise Psychologists apply psychological principles to promote health and fitness.

They work with individuals to improve their motivation, enhance physical performance, and understand the mental benefits of physical activity.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing clients’ mental and physical health, fitness goals, and motivational factors
• Developing individualized exercise and wellness programs to promote mental and physical health
• Advising on techniques to overcome barriers to physical activity and enhance motivation
• Applying psychological theories and principles to improve performance in sports and physical activities
• Providing counselling and support to clients dealing with mental health issues related to physical activity, such as body image concerns or exercise addiction
• Conducting research to understand the psychological effects of physical activity and using these findings to improve interventions
• Working closely with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care to patients
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest research in exercise psychology to provide the best possible care to clients

 

Exercise Psychologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Exercise Psychologist to join our team.

The candidate will help individuals achieve their fitness and wellness goals by using psychological theories and approaches.

This professional will be responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological conditions related to physical activity and exercise.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients’ mental health statuses related to physical fitness and exercise
• Develop comprehensive treatment plans to improve individuals’ well-being
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care
• Conduct research to contribute to the field of exercise psychology
• Provide psychoeducation to individuals and groups about the psychological aspects of physical activity
• Help individuals overcome barriers to physical activity and motivate them to achieve their fitness goals
• Document and maintain accurate case notes and treatment plans

 

Qualifications

• A doctorate degree in psychology, preferably with a focus on exercise or sports psychology
• Licensed to practice psychology in the state
• Experience working with diverse populations on issues related to physical activity and mental health
• Excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team of health care professionals
• Knowledge of the latest research and treatments in the field of exercise psychology

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Wellness program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Exercise Psychologist
• Work Environment: Clinic or hospital setting. Some travel may be required for conferences or continuing education.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Behavioral Health Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Exercise Psychologist Do?

Exercise Psychologists specialize in understanding the psychological connections between mental health and physical activity.

They typically work in clinical settings, fitness centers, hospitals, or may also operate independently in private practice.

They primarily study the motivations behind why individuals choose to exercise and why others do not.

They then apply this knowledge to promote healthier lifestyles, deal with exercise addictions, and help individuals overcome barriers to regular physical activity.

Exercise Psychologists often work with individuals suffering from chronic diseases, injuries, and mental health issues to design and implement exercise regimes that contribute to improving their physical as well as mental health.

They also provide counseling services, motivation, and guidance to individuals struggling with maintaining regular exercise habits, and those experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression due to lack of physical activity.

These professionals often work closely with other healthcare providers, fitness trainers, and therapists to develop comprehensive wellness plans for their clients.

They also conduct research, produce publications, and deliver presentations on the psychological aspects of exercise and physical activity.

 

Exercise Psychologist Qualifications and Skills

An effective Exercise Psychologist needs to have a range of skills and qualifications to provide tailored exercise and psychological support to clients.

These include:

• Knowledge of psychological theories and methodologies applied to exercise and sport to provide expert advice and strategies to clients.
• Physical fitness and understanding of a wide range of exercises and their psychological benefits, to design and implement individualized exercise programs.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with clients, listening and understanding their needs, goals, and concerns while also providing clear and comprehensive advice and feedback.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with clients, providing emotional support and motivating them to adhere to their exercise programs.
• Problem-solving skills to identify obstacles preventing clients from achieving their goals and develop strategies to overcome them.
• Experience with research methodologies and statistical analysis to gather and interpret data related to client progress and outcomes.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other health and fitness professionals, such as dietitians, physiotherapists, and personal trainers.
• Qualification in psychology and exercise science, preferably at a postgraduate level, and professional accreditation with a relevant body.

 

Exercise Psychologist Experience Requirements

Exercise Psychologists typically begin their journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or a related field, where they gain a foundational knowledge and understanding of the human body and mind.

Most exercise psychologists also hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree in Exercise Psychology or a related field.

During their graduate studies, they receive substantial practical experience through internships, research, and clinical practice, which is often required to meet the qualifications of many Exercise Psychologist roles.

Entry-level Exercise Psychologists may have 1 to 2 years of experience working in a clinical or counseling setting, often through internships or part-time roles in hospitals, clinics, or sports facilities.

They are typically involved in patient evaluation, treatment planning, and mental skills training.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of the psychological aspects of sports performance and exercise adherence.

They may also have experience in teaching, research, and counseling in sports and exercise settings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have extensive knowledge of the behavioral, cognitive-affective, and psychophysiological processes associated with physical activity.

They may also have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial role, such as leading a team of therapists or managing a sports psychology department.

Furthermore, some roles may require board certification from a recognized body, like the American Board of Sport Psychology.

This certification usually requires a combination of education, practical experience, and a passing score on an examination.

 

Exercise Psychologist Education and Training Requirements

Exercise Psychologists typically have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, sports science, kinesiology, or a related field.

A strong foundation in both psychology and physical health is crucial for this profession.

Most exercise psychologists go on to pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate in a specialized field such as sports psychology, exercise psychology, or health psychology.

This advanced education allows professionals to gain more in-depth knowledge and research experience.

It’s also important to have a sound understanding of various exercise routines, their psychological impacts, and how to tailor these routines to an individual’s psychological state.

Licensing is an essential requirement for all psychologists, including those who specialize in exercise.

Licensing requirements vary by state but generally include completing an accredited doctoral program, obtaining a certain amount of supervised professional experience, and passing an examination.

Optional certifications, such as the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification from the Association for Applied Sport Psychology, can further enhance an exercise psychologist’s credentials and marketability.

These certifications often require additional supervised experience and may require passing additional examinations.

Continuing education is crucial in this field, as new research and methodologies continue to emerge.

Many exercise psychologists participate in workshops, seminars, and other ongoing education opportunities to stay current in the field.

It’s also beneficial to have strong interpersonal skills, as exercise psychologists work directly with clients to improve their mental and physical well-being.

 

Exercise Psychologist Salary Expectations

An Exercise Psychologist can expect to earn an average salary of $89,440 (USD) per year.

This figure can vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, and the region in which they are practicing.

 

Exercise Psychologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Exercise Psychologist need?

Exercise Psychologists need to have strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively communicate with their clients.

They should possess the ability to motivate and encourage individuals to adopt physical activity behavior.

They should also be knowledgeable in behavioral change theories and strategies, understand the principles of exercise physiology, and be able to design and implement exercise interventions.

Lastly, they should be empathetic, patient, and able to manage stress.

 

Do Exercise Psychologists need a degree?

Yes, Exercise Psychologists need at least a master’s degree in Psychology, Sport Psychology, Exercise Science, or a related field.

Some positions may require a Doctorate degree.

Furthermore, they need to be licensed to practice in their state.

This often requires passing a licensing exam after obtaining the necessary degree.

 

What should you look for in an Exercise Psychologist resume?

You should look for a master’s or Doctorate degree in a relevant field on an Exercise Psychologist’s resume.

Check for licensing information and any additional certifications, such as Certified Exercise Physiologist or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

Look for experience in working with different populations, implementing exercise interventions, and assessing and monitoring physical activity.

 

What qualities make a good Exercise Psychologist?

A good Exercise Psychologist is empathetic and patient, possessing strong communication skills to build rapport with their clients.

They should be good motivators, encouraging their clients to stick to exercise plans and achieve their fitness goals.

They should also be analytical, capable of interpreting data and making evidence-based recommendations for exercise interventions.

 

What are the daily duties of an Exercise Psychologist?

An Exercise Psychologist’s daily duties might include assessing clients’ physical activity levels and readiness to exercise, designing tailored exercise interventions, and monitoring clients’ progress.

They may also conduct research on the psychological factors influencing physical activity, present findings at conferences, or write reports.

Depending on their work setting, they may also teach classes or workshops on exercise psychology.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of what it means to be an exercise psychologist.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about understanding the mind.

It’s about shaping healthier, happier futures, one mental push-up at a time.

With our handy exercise psychologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to leap forward.

But why limit yourself?

Go deeper with our job description generator. It’s your perfect tool for creating finely detailed listings or for perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every mental push-up contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become an Exercise Psychologist (Complete Guide)

The Joyful Path: Careers That Make Work Feel Like Pleasure

The AI Job Takeover: What’s Next for Human Workers?

Eye-Opener: Lowest Paying Jobs That Could Change Your Career Perspective

Stress-less Success: Careers That Offer a Breath of Fresh Air